gemstone
Aura Turquoise or Treated Turquoise Beads
Hydrated copper and aluminum phosphate (CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O) with metallic coating
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 5-6 on the Mohs scale; Color: Robin's egg blue to greenish-blue with iridescent metallic flash; Luster: Waxy to sub-vitreous with metallic sheen; Crystal Structure: Triclinic
- Hardness
- 5-6 on the Mohs scale
- Luster
- Waxy to sub-vitreous with metallic sheen
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5-6 on the Mohs scale; Color: Robin's egg blue to greenish-blue with iridescent metallic flash; Luster: Waxy to sub-vitreous with metallic sheen; Crystal Structure: Triclinic
Formation & geological history
Formed by the weathering and oxidation of pre-existing copper-bearing minerals, commonly in arid regions, subsequently treated with a metallic vapor coating for an iridescent finish.
Uses & applications
Used primarily for jewelry making, beading, and ornamental crafts.
Geological facts
Turquoise is one of the world's most ancient gem materials, prized by ancient civilizations like the Egyptians and Native Americans. The iridescent variant is created through modern alchemical processes bonding metals to the surface.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its characteristic light blue color paired with a metallic rainbow sheen, commonly sold in strands or loose bead form for crafting.
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